Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facility. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days a week. This can be very helpful for those who have just completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For an individual with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment programs which offer treatment over a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehab alternative.